China seeks enhanced ties with Lanka

Chaminda PERERA

COLOMBO: Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi yesterday reiterated China's unwavering commitment to uphold Sri Lanka's sovereignty, territorial integrity and the promotion of national unity.

Addressing the media after a meeting with Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at the Foreign Ministry, the Chinese Foreign Minister said China is committed towards enhancing relations with Sri Lanka in all spheres.

"China has a comprehensive economic partnership with Sri Lanka through which people of both countries will benefit.

"Our discussion focused on how relations between the two countries should be strengthened further," he said. The Chinese Foreign Minister appreciated Sri Lanka's assistance for earthquake victims in the Sichuan province and its stance on Tibet and Taiwan issues.

China also signed an agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation through which Sri Lanka will receive 50 million Yuan as a grant.

"Our government is also encouraging more Chinese investments in the field of infrastructure in Sri Lanka and hope that Sri Lankans would welcome such investment," he said.

He insisted that there should be more exchanges and cooperation in the field of culture and student exchange and promised to work out a programme to encourage more Sri Lankan students into China.

"The Chinese Government will take all measures to ensure that the Norochocholai Coal Power plant, Hambantota harbour and the performing arts theatre projects are completed within the stipulated timeframe.

"We have extended our cooperation almost in all areas of development and will provide assistance to meet Sri Lanka's development needs in the future," the visiting Foreign Minister said.

The Chinese Foreign Minister said there is more that Sri Lanka and China could do in the international arena to promote regional and international stability.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said Sri Lanka has maintained a clear stand over one China policy vis a vis, Taiwan and Tibet.

"Our policy has been consistent throughout and the Mahinda Rajapaksa Government will also continue this policy. The projects funded by China are worth over US$ 1 billion and they will register economic stability.

"We are indebted to China for the economic cooperation we are receiving and their coopeation is manisfested in all fields of the country such as ports development, performing arts theatre and Power projects."

The performing arts theatre being built in the Colombo city will manifest Chinese presence in the form donation.